tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885Tue, 03 Mar 2015 17:46:58 +0000Life and LovefaithThis and ThatMy Favorite MelodiesWatch this and Read thisweek's endgiveawaymy stylethriveHappily Ever Afterhealthy livingQandAdeeperRecipesreviewDIYreviewsthe Places You'll Gocrush of the monthtravelProject New Homeweddinginstagram#holdersnotfoldersblog ithouse and homeinspiration boardholiday gift guideramblingswhole30coloradocommunitymintedgap1000 giftsblog trickslocalChristmasbook clubgoalsstitch fixwhy i blogTriStyleblogWife Lifebirthdaycoupon codegiftssummerFirebeautyblog 101disneylink upphotographythe great Christmas exchangechacosfinding me mini seriesnaptime diariespaleo dietpartysponsor codebookscardscoffeeetsyguest postsmilk and crownthankfultop 10valentines dayadventbarn weddingbox subscriptionbudget weddingchallengefamilyfoodit's all goodmother's daymusicmy writingsnorwaysponsorsponsorsadoptionadvertisingart printsart wallbabiesbirthdaysbridal showercameracampcapsule wardrobecoralcupcakesdadetsy swapfather's dayfrozenfruitgiving backgweneth paltrowharry potterhashtaghow tolife networknaturalshopsmoothiestargettipsversewalk for life#greatchristmas2014Christmas cardsad salebloglovin'bluebodybreakfast timebrotherbrucebudgetchacochocolatecleancodecookbookcraftcraftscutedino dietdonateeagle lakeengagementfall to-do listfathers dayfeaturefriendsfriendshipgamesgivegoldgraduationhealthyhomehouse projectsinfluence networkinvitationsjewelrylaughterlentlindsay lettersmailmercy inkmommug swapnail polishorganizationoutsidephoneprintsrudy'ssaleservingshoppingsistersspeak lifespringsubscribesucculentsthank you notesthe circlethreduptraditiontruthwhat i worewifewinewordsyoutube$100%50 off201431 days of praying for your husband31 prayers40 daysBBQChristChristmas treeDorien Scheltens PhotographyEssential OilsFAQGifts for dadGifts for guysGodGolden ToteGreat gifts under $50HairJohnathan Edward PhotographyNorthwest ArkansasONA bagOakandoatsPinterestPrintcopiaStanley FlaskStanley Vacuum BottleStanley Vacuum PintSunday Post ChallengeWalt Disney Worldadviceaffordableaflacagroalbion fitalohaappartathletaathleticaugustauntautumnbanana republicbandbanjobarnbaseballbe here nowbeerbellebible studybinderbirdblack forest fireblogsbluegrassbota boxboxbridesmaidsbrightbroncosbrunchbundtbusiness cardscakecallingcamera gearcasey's barncharitychevronchromebookclassclassyclean energyclever girlsclosetcolorcolorado rockiescommunicationcomputerconscious boxcookiecookie exchangecookiescrafistascurtainsdate ideasdavid tennentdecoratingdesigndinnerdisney worlddistracteddr.whodramadreamsdrinksdrivingeastereasyeateryeco friendlyenvironmentfactsfamily nightfarmersfarmers marketfatherhoodfavoritefeaturedfitfive thingsflowerflowersfossilfotostrapframesfreefree printablesfreshfresh fruitfungalvanizedgenerouslygfcgift guidegiveawaysgoat editiongoody bagsgracegrandmagreengroomsmengrowgrowinghair cuthalloweenhanginghappy mailheadbandheathy livinghellohigh schoolhipsterholidayhome depothomebrewhometownhouse of garlandhow to import GFC contactshuckberryhummushusbandiced teaikeaimadefaceincomeinsuranceinternetinvitesisn't that sewizzejenny highsmithjobjournaljoyjudah and the lionjulepkidskingdomkitchenlearningletterslife and justicelifestylelogolovelove languageslove yourselfmake upmakeupmarbled vasemargaritamayberrymayberry tripmealsmemememorial weekendmemoriesmen's giftminimalistmintmissionsmonogrammountainsmoviesmugsmy favorite things giveawaynamenaturenestingnetowrkingnewnew growthnewsletternoondaynoreplynotesoak&oats printofficeold colorado cityold navyorganicorigramioscarsoutdooroutfitsover easypaintparkparty favorspaypal cashpeanut butterpenperfectionpicturespintpipesplanspmediapolka dotspopsugarprayerprayersprepare and enrichproductspromqualityrad dadrazorbacksreader surveyreadingreading nookrecapreceptionred enveloperehearsalreirend collectiveringrockiesrosesamaritans pursesangriaservicesharpieshe reads truthsimplesmall buisnesssmoressnail mail collectivesnape quotesnowsonyspicesportsspring breakspring cleaningstarbucksstationarystatsstuck on yousummer campsummer jobssummer salesummertimesunshinesuperbowlswimweartaylor swiftteagaritatend and gatherthatch and thistlethe art of frozen reviewthe parcel post companythirty onethrowback thursdaytouristtreattristyle&cotutorialtututvuncleuniquevacationvenuevera bradleyvideovlogvolleyballwashi tapewedding dresswedding giftwedding toastswhat i readwild flowerswilliams and sonomawinwindowswinnerswirewire curtainswooden pencilzooOak & Oatshttp://www.oakandoats.com/noreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)Blogger1199125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-9195212494345437710Tue, 03 Mar 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-03-03T01:00:02.764-07:00my styleTriStyleTriStyle & CO || Vests <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy February! Each month Samantha of <a href="http://www.elahtree.com/">Elah Tree</a>, Megs of <a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">Rivers &amp; Roads,</a>&nbsp;and me (Elizabeth of Oak + Oats!) join together to share three ways to style the same clothing item &amp; your invited to be a part it! <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/p/do-you-remember-at-beginning-of-month.html">Our goal is to encourage, awaken, and celebrate the inherent beauty in each one of us as we live in community.</a><br />
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For March we wanted to bring something out of our own closets and into this challenge - drum roll please - the VEST! I am a Colorado girl through and through and I have a little obsession with vests. I only own the super puffy kind that keep my core warm, but there are so many kids of adorable vests out there!We know so many of our readers are from all over the world and have a variety of style &amp; temperatures. We want to see the vests you rock, no matter what type they are.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>YOUR MISSION: </b></span>For the month of March we are styling our vests! Then YOU show us how YOU style your vest on your blog, facebook, instagram, or twitter! Make sure to use the hashtag #TryStyleCo so that we can see your wonderful creations. The last Tuesday of every month we will be sharing our favorite posts, tweets, and instagrams with everyone!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>HOW WE STYLED OUR VESTS: </b></span>I totally brought Bruce into this challenge because men wear vests/ get dressed too! I also think he is super good looking. Best thing about vests is that they keep you warm, but not too warm. I have my absolute favorite <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=459828999&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Atheta Vest </a>(that I am wearing in a million photos on the blog - <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2014/12/warm-weather-clothing.html">here</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2014/11/cute-cozy.html">here</a>) with my <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=460868587&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Men's Gap Flannel</a> (the girl ones just didn't cut it!), classic Gap skinny jeans, and my dear <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=436572981&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Chaco Boots</a>. Bruce man is rockin' his stocking stuffer <a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301">sunglasses from Huckberry</a>, <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=465792176&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Gap puffy vest</a>, <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=434281286&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">North Face hiking pants</a>, and <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=6jl7ivA/9Kc&amp;subid=&amp;offerid=330160.1&amp;type=10&amp;tmpid=13068&amp;RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chacos.com%2FUS%2Fen-US%2FProduct.mvc.aspx%2F32094M%2F78368%2FMens%2FBrio-Boot%3Fdimensions%3D0">Chaco boots</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.elahtree.com/">SAMANTHA</a>: I want to wear vests all day everyday. I'm still adjusting to these New England winter's so I'm no able to run around just in a vest, but when I am able, it's my favorite. I'm also still working at making my wardrobe work for me and I've recently been working on mixing my workout gear with my everyday wear. And that is exactly what I did with this outfit. Athletic, fun, and comfy!</div>
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<a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">MEGS</a>: Vests are my go-to outerwear for a Tennessee winter. They are perfect for keeping my core warm and my arms free. :) My vest was given to me as a Christmas gift this past year, and I don't think I have gone a day without wearing it. Ha! It's so comfortable and keeps me perfectly warm and cozy. I paired my <a href="http://www.rockcreek.com/outdoor-research/aria-vest-womens/23579.rc?catId=womens-outdoor-research">vest</a> with my <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&amp;pid=989318002">GAP buffalo plaid shirt</a>, <a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/79562?feat=sugoi-SR0&amp;page=sugoi-subzero-tights&amp;attrValue_0=Black&amp;productId=1328987">fleece-lined leggings</a> (the best), and <a href="http://www.keenfootwear.com/">Keen boots</a>! <br />
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<b><i>We can't wait for you to come along with us! Join the <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/p/do-you-remember-at-beginning-of-month.html">TriStyle &amp; Co. Community</a>! Don't forget to #TriStyleCo ! Have an idea of what we should style for next month? Tweet us using the hashtag #TriStyleCo and follow us on instagram too - <a href="http://instagram.com/oakandoats">@oakandoats</a> <a href="http://instagram.com/megmcilvaine">@megmcilvaine</a> <a href="http://instagram.com/elahtree">@Elahtree</a></i></b></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/03/tristyle-co-vests.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-8852379843388097391Mon, 02 Mar 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-03-02T01:00:04.125-07:00week's endWeek's End<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SNAPSHOTS</b></span><br />
1. SNOW SNOW SNOW! As a Colorado girl I am used to snow in the winter but this week was more than normal! It was a wonderful mix of storm after storm! The snow day and snow delays were such a blessing this past week after coming home from our Texas trip!<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.rocksbox.com/">Rocksbox</a> y'all! I just discovered this wonderful gem of <a href="https://www.rocksbox.com/">unlimited designer jewelry</a>! It is magical. Use code: OakandoatsXOXO for your first box FREE! Try it out now - you have nothing to lose!<br />
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3. Moving in my sister into her new house. I helped with the doll house set up. #theimportantthings<br />
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4. This photo is not perfect but there is something that I love so much about it. I think I just love that it is me - messy hair, no make up, puffy coat, and red nose from the Colorado cold. I love wearing make up, dressing up, and learning more about fun beauty tips but I also love messy ponytails, simple clothes I can move in, and my adventure heart. I used to think I needed to pick between being a fancy girl or an outdoorsy girl and I wanted both so much I had no idea how to pick. Instead of embracing both, I just felt misplaced. I am learning to be me fancy sometimes and outdoorsy others - because that is who I am!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>YOU MAY HAVE MISSED</b></span><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/tristyle-co-styled-by-you.html">TriStyle &amp; CO Styled by You</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/tend-gather.html">Tend &amp; Gather</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/filters-instagram.html">Filters: Instagram</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/snapshots-from-winter-park.html">Snapshots of Winter Park</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/diy-sugar-scrub-giveaway.html">DIY Sugar Scrub&nbsp;+ Giveaway</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GREAT FINDS</span></b><br />
- Instagram <a href="https://instagram.com/p/zsvPh8C9mI/?modal=true">GIVEAWAY!&nbsp;</a><br />
- <a href="http://www.deeplyrootedmag.com/">Deeply Rooted Magazine</a>, how did I just discover this!?!?<br />
- <a href="https://twitter.com/oakandoats/status/572248299622674433">50% off all advertising at Oak&nbsp;+ Oats</a><br />
- I love finding <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624797910/">new things to try</a> with my Essential Oils!<br />
- This <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624776932/">photographer is perfection</a><br />
- 10 things to do in <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624776912/">Harry Potter World</a><br />
- I've been spending a lot of time organizing photography I love. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624761068/">This shot for my Wedding Photography</a> is stunning.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK UP</span></b><br />
Every Monday I host a link up called Week's End! It is a place for you to link up your favorite post from the week and meet new bloggers. I love community and think that we can all learn something from each other! This week <a href="http://www.whisperingsweetly.com/">Shane of Whispering Sweet Nothings</a> is my co-host!<br />
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1. Link up ANY POST from last week!<br />
2. Make sure it is a POST and not your BLOG URL. We love your blog but we want you to share a post.<br />
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3. Click on one, two, three, or more posts and LEAVE ENCOURAGING COMMENTS. The whole point of this is to find new blogs, make new friends, and all that good stuff! You MUST read the post right before yours and comment.</div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/03/weeks-end.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-7607295138182483571Fri, 27 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-27T01:00:01.897-07:00DIYEssential Oilshealthy livingDIY Sugar Scrub + Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here in Colorado our Winters are pretty dry. I mean, we get a lot of snow (resulting in snow days &amp; delays this week!!!) but the moisture doesn't stay in the air. As a result, our hair is staticy and our skin is dry. In a crazy turn of fate, we still get oily hair and pimples - how does that all add up?!!<br />
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I am always on the hunt for something to take care of my dull winter skin - brightening, moisturizing, and not causing outbreaks. It is more complicated than one would hope. Then you also have to look at all those extra ingredients and unpronounceable additives. I had heard so much about Essential Oils and DIY scrubs for healthy skin, so I jumped into making mine. I have been using it in the shower all over my body and it is working! This DIY scrub is so easy to make and I am sure you will love it! It is great for you or to give as a gift!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">WHAT YOU NEED</span></b><br />
- 1 Cup Brown Sugar<br />
- 1/4 Cup Coconut Oil<br />
- 15 drops of <a href="http://www.nicoleneesby.com/p/essential-oils.html">Essential Lemon Oil</a><br />
- Glass jar (or Pyrex container - <u>do not</u> store in all plastic container)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">HOW TO</span></b><br />
1. Melt the coconut oil if needed and pour into bowl<br />
2. Add brown sugar and mix<br />
3. Drop in 15 drops into the mixture and mix again<br />
4. Store in a glass jar for use<br />
* Keep one by a sink for hand scrubs or in the shower to use all over your body!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">WHY ADD ESSENTIAL LEMON OIL?</span></b><br />
- &nbsp;Increases the luster of dull skin<br />
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- Rejuvenates sagging or tired-looking skin</div>
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- Helps in treating pimples and various skin disorders</div>
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- Reduces excessive oil on the skin.<br />
- Helps remove mental fatigue, exhaustion, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness and nervous tension</div>
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- Refreshes the mind by creating a positive mindset and removing negative emotions.&nbsp;</div>
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- Increases concentration and alertness.<br />
-Lemon oil is also effective as a hair tonic. Many people use lemon oil to get strong, healthy and shiny hair. Lemon oil is also used to eliminate dandruff.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GIVEAWAY</span></b><br />
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We want to give one of you a chance to win the Young Living Lemon Essential Oil so that you can make this DIY at home (don't worry, for everyone else is is SUPER easy just to grab yours from Nicole!) The winner also walks home with a beautiful glass water bottle! To enter, just use the rafflecopter below and play fair! Winners will be verified.<br />
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="72c52ca471" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/72c52ca471/" id="rcwidget_3r895zvu" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">ABOUT NICOLE</span></b><br />
Hey friends! My name is Nicole and I am married to my best friend, Adam. We have two little dudes we call Emmett Dane and Gideon Brian Steele. Each day I keep the home fires burning in our&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nicoleneesby.com/search/label/dwell">120 year-old-house</a>, where you can find me&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nicoleneesby.com/search/label/create">creating</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nicoleneesby.com/search/label/eat">making yummy things to eat</a>&nbsp;and sharing my love of<a href="http://www.nicoleneesby.com/search/label/essential%20oils">&nbsp;essential oils.</a><br />
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After purchasing a starter kit with <a href="http://www.nicoleneesby.com/p/essential-oils.html">Young Living</a>, we are having so much fun learning different ways to incorporate essential oils into our health and wellness routine. We have found things like peppermint oil for headaches, Thieves for boosting our immune system and lavender oil for relaxing sleep at night all to be so so helpful. I am so happy to have chemical free options for our family's health and home. If you've heard the essential oil buzz that has exploded on social media and wondered how it might help you and your family, leave your email address in the comments and I'll send over more info. I can't wait to learn together! xo</div>
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<i><b>Do you use Essential Oils? Are you looking into ways to&nbsp;incorporate&nbsp;them into your everyday life? If you have&nbsp;any questions or comments, leave them below! Do you use sugar scrubs in the shower or when washing your hands? Have you ever made your own?</b></i></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/diy-sugar-scrub-giveaway.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-9040422564223804678Thu, 26 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-26T01:00:03.594-07:00Life and LovetravelSnapshots from Winter Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Part of the reason that I want to grow in my photography is so that I can capture the everyday life around me. We go on this trip to Winter Park every year but each year is so different because the kids grow and change and learn new things! I don't want to miss out on these moments. So I take my camera, laugh a lot, and ditch cell phone service &amp; internet connections - it is pure bliss!&nbsp;</div>
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We go to<a href="http://snowmountainranch.org/"> Snow Mountain Ranch</a> - it is a YMCA camp in Winter Park area. We rent a large cabin that fits the whole family, share meal responsibilities, and just hang out! We love going there because there is so much to do inside and outside. We never get board and have so much fun finding new adventures. The roller skating rink, the pool, and the craft shop are always high on our "must do" list! We also play games, go on hikes, curl hair, read stories, and eat cookies!&nbsp;</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f4dUAgvusjw/VOvAE963voI/AAAAAAAAz4w/PNkepJBoK28/s1600/Winter_park-79.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f4dUAgvusjw/VOvAE963voI/AAAAAAAAz4w/PNkepJBoK28/s1600/Winter_park-79.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iv2aWQbEv9Y/VOvAHGKUmlI/AAAAAAAAz5k/nEBI_qdDbbs/s1600/Winter_park-84.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iv2aWQbEv9Y/VOvAHGKUmlI/AAAAAAAAz5k/nEBI_qdDbbs/s1600/Winter_park-84.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L9zph6ovlwU/VOvAHwz0ZBI/AAAAAAAAz6A/ffPIolUelFY/s1600/Winter_park-86.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L9zph6ovlwU/VOvAHwz0ZBI/AAAAAAAAz6A/ffPIolUelFY/s1600/Winter_park-86.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Does your family have a yearly tradition like this? What kind of vacations do you go on?</i></b>http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/snapshots-from-winter-park.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-3430635709475812075Wed, 25 Feb 2015 12:30:00 +00002015-02-25T05:30:00.135-07:00#holdersnotfoldersFilters: InstagramYou may have seen last week that <a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">Meg</a> &amp; I are bringing back our <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/p/an-instagram-community.html">Holders Not Folders challenges</a>! So many of you participated in our Summer 2014 series, and we had a blast cultivating a creative Instagram community with you all.<br />
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For this quick, six week series, we want to focus on teaching you something new (or reminding you of something you already know) to integrate into your phone photography. Each week we will announce the new challenge, share a quick tutorial and/ or tips, and then encourage you to practice that skill in your instagrams! Make sure you hashtag #holdersnotfolders and interact with the others participating!<br />
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Are you in? We want to encourage you that you can create fun and inspiring photos with your phone and have a beautiful instagram that reflects YOU! Join the challenge and get creative.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T30nZM6wmuE/VO1A5_EssVI/AAAAAAAAYpo/M3XUFI_Yv8I/s1600/%23holdersnotfolders%2B(2).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T30nZM6wmuE/VO1A5_EssVI/AAAAAAAAYpo/M3XUFI_Yv8I/s1600/%23holdersnotfolders%2B(2).png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FILTERS</b></span><br />
<b>Written by Megan of <a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">Rivers and Roads</a></b><br />
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Today we are talking about filters. Those beautifully created presets just waiting to be placed with your photos. You've probably experienced those times when your original photos don't always portray the quality and style you want them to. So you head to your favorite photo editing software to up the exposure, contrast, highlights, shadows, tones, etc. until you get your photo just right.<br />
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I'd love to share three things I like to use/keep in mind when editing my photos for Instagram - apps, consistency/style, less is more.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">APPS</span></b><br />
There are so many photo editing apps out there, and I know it can sometimes be overwhelming when trying to decide which ones to use. There are two I highly recommend: <a href="http://vsco.co/">VSCO</a> and <a href="http://afterlight.us/">Afterlight</a>. I used Afterlight until I discovered VSCO, and it is a great app with wonderful editing capabilities and various filters options. However, I personally prefer VSCO's simplified setup and beautiful filters. I wrote a post a while back about <a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/2014/06/my-favorite-photo-editing-app.html">VSCO being my favorite photo editing app</a>, and I still stand by that! It is extremely user friendly, well designed, and has everything you could want out of a photo editing app.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eB_8v5IP31Y/VO1VkrNM2eI/AAAAAAAAYrQ/k2wgUFlro2Y/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eB_8v5IP31Y/VO1VkrNM2eI/AAAAAAAAYrQ/k2wgUFlro2Y/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage3.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">CONSISTENCY/STYLE</span></b><br />
One of the things I've struggled with in the past is finding consistency in my Instagram style. Do I want my photos bright and bold, &nbsp;or more muted, or black and white, etc? Personally, I think that your editing style is something important to consider when looking at your Instagram feed. Your style helps to set you and your brand apart from the rest of the crowd. I edit every single one of my photos the same way, using the same filter, in order to create a kind of consistent feel for all of the photos in my feed. This helps to set a "mood" for your Instagram. I've found that I prefer my photos to be brighter and bolder. This means I tend to bump up the exposure, contrast, and saturation, and throw on my favorite filter at a low intensity (usually HB 1 or 2 in VSCO).<br />
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I have included some before and afters of Instagrams which best represent the bright and bold look that I am going for in my feed.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bIjkEuPndwc/VO1SytwTd9I/AAAAAAAAYrE/e0R1E0DF3Ok/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bIjkEuPndwc/VO1SytwTd9I/AAAAAAAAYrE/e0R1E0DF3Ok/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage1.jpg" height="213" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DxkoA7HYS14/VO1Let-aCAI/AAAAAAAAYqM/CzUP7-bgCqQ/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-top: -30px;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DxkoA7HYS14/VO1Let-aCAI/AAAAAAAAYqM/CzUP7-bgCqQ/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" height="213" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LESS IS MORE</span></b><br />
Clean and simple is my go-to style in most every part of my life, and that includes my Instagrams. :) In order to obtain that look, I use natural lighting as much as possible. Good lighting will drastically improve the quality of your photos, requiring less editing to give your photos the pizzazz you want. Because of that, I almost never use filters at their highest intensity because that can tend to over-edit your photo. Sometimes the use of too many filters can make the photo lose a lot of the qualities that were great about the original. Like they say, you CAN have too much of a good thing. My rule of thumb when it comes to filters is to use it but don't abuse it, and remember that sometimes less is more! :)<br />
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<i><b>HOMEWORK: Now it's your turn! While you're instagramming this week, play around with filters and your editing style. Figure out what you like and what you don't like. Try to find an editing style that gives consistency to your Instagram photos.&nbsp;</b><b>Download some different apps and figure out which is your favorite to use!</b><b>&nbsp;Share with us any photos you are proud of by using the hashtag #holdersnotfolders, and please leave some love on other grams you see in the feed!&nbsp;</b></i><br />
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<b>Be sure to follow <a href="http://www.instagram.com/megmcilvaine">@megmcilvaine</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/oakandoats">@oakandoats</a> on Instagram. To see the rest of this challenge (along with our previous series) <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/p/an-instagram-community.html">click here</a>.</b></i>http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/filters-instagram.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-5574637174400050656Wed, 25 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-25T01:00:05.714-07:00tend and gatherthriveTend & Gather<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ci6tW3Gc9Z8/VOvLaVjG48I/AAAAAAAAz-s/buZWecsVTMQ/s1600/tend_gather-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ci6tW3Gc9Z8/VOvLaVjG48I/AAAAAAAAz-s/buZWecsVTMQ/s1600/tend_gather-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Community, friendship, people, and relationships. All those words mean so much to me. From a young age, I have always been a people person and it was no surprise to anyone when I majored in Family &amp; Human Services - the people major. I feel like I bring a lot of that to this space. Encouraging you to connect with others. Finding new stationary so I can (and you can!) send more notes. Family and friend vacations. There are a lot of people centered posts on this blog.&nbsp;</div>
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The other day I came across <a href="http://katiramer.com/">Kati Ramer's beautiful website</a> and fell in love with her <a href="http://katiramer.com/collections/tendandgather">Tend &amp; Gather </a>line!&nbsp;</div>
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"What if really caring for people. Like really serving people, loving people,<br />
stewarding our valued relationships,&nbsp;standing by our friends, TENDING to them, and GATHERING with them&nbsp;--was at the heart of everything we do?<br />
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What if we focused less on pinning our way to the most perfect and elaborate gourmet dinner party to impress people, and more on creating a warm and welcoming table to give people a place to feel safe and fed? Not sending the perfect birthday gift, but remembering to celebrate the life of the ones we love so much on their special day?</blockquote>
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That's the heart behind <a href="http://katiramer.com/collections/tendandgather">Tend &amp; Gather</a>. It's all designed to help you intentionally tend to our important relationships &amp; create simple, purposeful gatherings that help you love your people well.&nbsp;Love each other. Love each other so well that everyone will notice."</blockquote>
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I fell in love with it all (as you would expect) and I was so excited to open my Tend &amp; Gather kit this past weekend! This line is all about maintaining those long distance relationships and finding ways to be in each others lives from afar. A journal is a great way to do that - to pass back and forth between two people or a whole group! The kit also comes with a beautiful set of cards to send out!&nbsp;</div>
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Join us today in making time to tend &amp; gather those relationships in our lives. Near and far! Show us how you tend to &nbsp;your relationships by using the hashtag #tendtogether and make sure to follow<a href="https://instagram.com/katiramer/"> Kati on Instagram</a> because she is so adorable!&nbsp;</div>
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<i><b>Do you have a best friend, family member, or any other long distance relationship that the <a href="http://katiramer.com/collections/tendandgather/products/tend-far-away-journal">Tend Far Away</a> journal would be perfect for? I know I am not the only on with friends and family all over the world. How do you continue to tend &amp; gather in your relationships - near &amp; far? Make sure to hashtag #tendtogether to show us how you are tending to your relationships!!!&nbsp;</b></i>http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/tend-gather.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-7782391286432892735Tue, 24 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-24T01:00:02.551-07:00TriStyleTriStyle & CO || Styled by You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--11GpN3YwDY/VOuyka8YFbI/AAAAAAAAzs4/hAkXBnRZ7YA/s1600/Scarf_Tristyle-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--11GpN3YwDY/VOuyka8YFbI/AAAAAAAAzs4/hAkXBnRZ7YA/s1600/Scarf_Tristyle-9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FEBRUARY || SCARVES</b></span><br />
Each month Samantha of <a href="http://www.elahtree.com/">Elah Tree</a>, Megs of <a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">Rivers &amp; Roads,</a> and me (Elizabeth of Oak + Oats!) join together to share three ways to style the same clothing item &amp; your invited to be a part it! Our goal is to encourage, awaken, and celebrate the inherent beauty in each one of us as we live in community.<br />
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At the beginning of <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/tristyle-co-scarves-in-all-seasons.html">February we announced scarves in all seasons</a> as our theme for the month! We love how so many of you took advantage of fun prompt and got your TriStyle on! Here are just some of our favorites! We love seeing you continue in your style (even after the month is over) so keep tagging them!!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">ON INSTAGRAM</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/zcm1DoBKmM/?modal=true">@paperswallowevents</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://instagram.com/p/y7JdXlMxUZ/?modal=true">@alove926</a></div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/y5Uf6vGLqj/?modal=true">@charliejaymes</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://instagram.com/p/zQThiEgOGS/?modal=true">@allisonramsing</a></div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/yzfD0Kpt_q/?modal=true">@janeneking&nbsp;</a><a href="https://instagram.com/p/xhWBe3EZYj/?modal=true">@sarahapotts</a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">AROUND THE WEB</span></b><br />
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- Follow our <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/oakandoats/tristyle-co/">TriStyle Pinterest Board</a> to see other bloggers in action!&nbsp;</div>
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- <a href="http://allisonramsing.com/2015/02/18/tristyle-co-scarf-challenge/?utm_campaign=coschedule&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=allisonramsing&amp;utm_content=TriStyle%20and%20Co:%20Scarf%20Challenge">Alison Ramsing </a>shared her heart and her scarf</div>
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- Amy inspired us <a href="http://www.takingstepshome.com/2015/02/tristyleco-50-points-to.html">to get creative</a> with our scarf locations!&nbsp;</div>
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<i><b>There is always still time to join the challenge! Make sure you hashtag your photos #tristyleco for a chance to be featured. How you do love to wear scarves?</b></i></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/tristyle-co-styled-by-you.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-1971138879301429368Mon, 23 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-23T01:00:00.055-07:00week's endWeek's End<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uPcEpSoL-SY/VOq_3q4SdqI/AAAAAAAAzrw/m4HE-zBphsI/s1600/weeks_end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uPcEpSoL-SY/VOq_3q4SdqI/AAAAAAAAzrw/m4HE-zBphsI/s1600/weeks_end.jpg" height="638" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SNAPSHOTS</b></span><br />
1. Bruce and I were in a Texas wedding this weekend for our dear cousins and sweet friends David &amp; Mer! Megan also was in the wedding so it was not only fun to spend so much time with family but also with my best friend!<br />
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2. Snowy days are for making muffins. I am a sucker for blueberry muffins.<br />
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3. I got some new Old Navy shoes for the real cheeps and I am loving having a casual and cute shoe.<br />
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4. That is my little cousin Parker! His sister was the one getting married and I'll tell ya, the whole wedding party sure had a blast! I so loved spending so much time with our Texas family!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">YOU MAY HAVE MISSED</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/discovering.html">Discovering</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/cropping-framing-instagram.html">Cropping &amp; Framing || Instagram</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/wheat-cinnamon-rolls.html">Wheat Cinnamon Rolls</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/mane-message-giveaway.html">Mane Message Giveaway</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GREAT FINDS</span></b><br />
-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624735423/">10 Books</a> Every Aspiring Blogger Should Read<br />
- How to <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624732335/">Write a Pitch Email</a><br />
- I am in <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624732331/">love with this outfit</a>, if only I could learn to walk in heals.<br />
- Love this interview with a <a href="http://www.megbiram.com/gsd-olivia-hayward-mane-message/">small business owner</a><br />
- <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624718462/">Fruit Dip</a><br />
- These <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624723248/">muddy feet</a> make me smile<br />
- Lara Casey: <a href="http://allisonramsing.com/2015/02/19/story-beautiful-lara-make-happen-giveaway/">My Story is Beautiful</a><br />
- Classic Camp Wedding Photo <a href="https://instagram.com/p/zaz8DuPhei/?modal=true">here</a> &amp; <a href="https://instagram.com/p/zZEmn_GTkj/?modal=true">here</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK UP</span></b><br />
Every Monday I host a link up called Week's End! It is a place for you to link up your favorite post from the week and meet new bloggers. I love community and think that we can all learn something from each other! This week <a href="http://www.franklymydear-blog.com/">Jenni of Frankly My Dear</a>&nbsp;is my co-host!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VxBrHqBpEAA/VOZccyLn_NI/AAAAAAAAzeQ/JQNw2fvrmnA/s1600/200x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VxBrHqBpEAA/VOZccyLn_NI/AAAAAAAAzeQ/JQNw2fvrmnA/s1600/200x200.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hi Oak &amp; Oats friends! I'm <a href="http://www.franklymydear-blog.com/">Jenni &amp; I blog over at Frankly My Dear</a>. I share about married life, faith, &amp; fun projects. My goal for this online space is to foster community, inspire others, &amp; love on people through the internet. I am passionate about hospitality, the color pink, &amp; all things vintage. I own a small handmade business, work full time in the agriculture field, &amp; LOVE all things DIY. It's so nice to meet you &amp; I can't wait to get to know you!</span></div>
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RULES!!!!!<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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1. Link up ANY POST from last week!</div>
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2. Make sure it is a POST and not your BLOG URL. We love your blog but we want you to share a post.</div>
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3. Click on one, two, three, or more posts and LEAVE ENCOURAGING COMMENTS. The whole point of this is to find new blogs, make new friends, and all that good stuff! You MUST read the post right before yours and comment. </div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/weeks-end_23.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-2538884854227306523Fri, 20 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-20T01:00:01.640-07:00coloradomy styleMane Message Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JVpitd-W6s4/VOFp9pjJw8I/AAAAAAAAzG4/PnS5upxzYNo/s1600/Winter_park-62.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JVpitd-W6s4/VOFp9pjJw8I/AAAAAAAAzG4/PnS5upxzYNo/s1600/Winter_park-62.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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When we went up to Winter Park last weekend, Bruce and I wanted to get a good chunk of "adventure" in! We spent a lot of time hiking around and discovering new trails. The weather was so nice, we figured we could make it in our <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=6jl7ivA/9Kc&amp;subid=&amp;offerid=330160.1&amp;type=10&amp;tmpid=13068&amp;RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chacos.com%2FUS%2Fen-US%2FProduct.mvc.aspx%2F32094M%2F78368%2FMens%2FBrio-Boot%3Fdimensions%3D0">Chaco boots</a> but there were definitely times when snowshoes would have been a better option!&nbsp;</div>
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As I love to do when I am &nbsp;in the mountains/ hiking around - I love to find cute ways to keep my hair out of my face! This <a href="http://www.manemessage.com/collections/wire-headbands">Mane Messages wire headband</a> was perfect for the job! I loved how comfortable it was and how well it stayed in my hair even with all the wind, the running, and the falling in huge piles of snow!&nbsp;</div>
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I don't know where your adventures will take you next, but if you are looking for cute, quality, and affordable hair accessories, <a href="http://www.manemessage.com/">I have you covered</a>!&nbsp;</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qpK8gVHVbXY/VOFp-dwFr_I/AAAAAAAAzHE/oIvOkumuu9M/s1600/Winter_park-65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qpK8gVHVbXY/VOFp-dwFr_I/AAAAAAAAzHE/oIvOkumuu9M/s1600/Winter_park-65.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MFTJAMVqPnE/VOFp-iH0iLI/AAAAAAAAzHM/YQu5R_KUOSU/s1600/Winter_park-66.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MFTJAMVqPnE/VOFp-iH0iLI/AAAAAAAAzHM/YQu5R_KUOSU/s1600/Winter_park-66.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGjMegcBhHA/VOFp9ZlznFI/AAAAAAAAzHA/8KdxooO68CM/s1600/Winter_park-63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGjMegcBhHA/VOFp9ZlznFI/AAAAAAAAzHA/8KdxooO68CM/s1600/Winter_park-63.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fKXye4tYvjA/VOUTckoCcUI/AAAAAAAAzV8/sgZz60BrY2I/s1600/Oak_and_Oats-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fKXye4tYvjA/VOUTckoCcUI/AAAAAAAAzV8/sgZz60BrY2I/s1600/Oak_and_Oats-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8p3ehEsYWSY/VOFp8sjDaNI/AAAAAAAAzGo/kYtWQ_xnSVQ/s1600/Winter_park-61.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8p3ehEsYWSY/VOFp8sjDaNI/AAAAAAAAzGo/kYtWQ_xnSVQ/s1600/Winter_park-61.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2RONxu8X2aI/VOFp-6zPS0I/AAAAAAAAzHQ/5s06Xzeua2o/s1600/Winter_park-67.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2RONxu8X2aI/VOFp-6zPS0I/AAAAAAAAzHQ/5s06Xzeua2o/s1600/Winter_park-67.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtI7BSFNcJ8/VOFp_RvO_HI/AAAAAAAAzHg/sfOfADfQOy8/s1600/Winter_park-69.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtI7BSFNcJ8/VOFp_RvO_HI/AAAAAAAAzHg/sfOfADfQOy8/s1600/Winter_park-69.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>OUTFIT DETAILS:</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.manemessage.com/collections/wire-headbands">Headband</a> || Mane Message</div>
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<a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=456533495&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Pants</a>&nbsp;||&nbsp;GAP</div>
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<a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=467998544&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Sweater</a> ||&nbsp;GAP</div>
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<a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=436572981&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Boots</a> || Chaco</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FT9kSy53Ws/VOFp8pENdLI/AAAAAAAAzGk/NWp0hWKpfZs/s1600/Winter_park-60.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FT9kSy53Ws/VOFp8pENdLI/AAAAAAAAzGk/NWp0hWKpfZs/s1600/Winter_park-60.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>YOUR CHANCE TO WIN:</b></span></div>
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You can win this beautiful headband plus some extra Mane Message goodies if you are up for it! Just use the rafflecopter below to enter to win. Play fair, because entries will be verified!&nbsp;</div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="72c52ca470" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/72c52ca470/" id="rcwidget_1zob7m42" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/mane-message-giveaway.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-7231340346568723197Thu, 19 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-19T01:00:05.645-07:00RecipesWheat Cinnamon Rolls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MHZDfkc3aag/VOK1bwNLcWI/AAAAAAAAzQ0/mkR0KetmU8U/s1600/bread_revolution-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MHZDfkc3aag/VOK1bwNLcWI/AAAAAAAAzQ0/mkR0KetmU8U/s1600/bread_revolution-1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
I am not a cook and I am also not really a baker, but I come much closer to baking than cooking. I think I just love the mixing of flours and sugars - something yummy can only come from those beginnings. This year I've been making more bread because I finally rearranged my kitchen and put my bread maker in an easy to reach place.<br />
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I was eager to pick up this book for my baking adventures and I am super proud of myself because I have already used it three times. This is a BIG deal for me (ask my husband) because I am not a fan of reading rules - which are what cookbooks are. But I think I keep coming back to this one because I love bread and I love that I don't have to go buy it at the store all the time.<br />
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So the other day when Bruce had friend's over, I whipped out my book to make some good old fashioned cinnamon rolls! I had them growing up but I had no earthly idea how long it took to make these things - I was expecting a can to pop open and I could place them on the over and serve them to those hungry men.<br />
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Nope. Those boys went home empty because this dough needed to rise twice...maybe even three times! All I know is that a project I started at 7 o clock Friday night wasn't finished until 2 o clock Saturday afternoon. The good news is that I made them by scratch, they tasted good, and I went back to the book looking for more.<br />
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Bread may take longer than I thought possible, but when you plan around all the rising and such, it is actually super easy and convenient! It also makes me feel more like a homemaker and when I work full time, blog part time, and maintain a pretty social social life, it is good to feel like I accomplish some household things!<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bread-Revolution-World-Class-Sprouted-Techniques/dp/1607746514">Bread Revolution</a>? Great book. I recommend it to anyone who is wanting to try their hand at bread making - even people like me can make great bread!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7bjyap1JDHg/VOKVr__61zI/AAAAAAAAzQc/DdrZHOuYJyM/s1600/bread_revolution-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7bjyap1JDHg/VOKVr__61zI/AAAAAAAAzQc/DdrZHOuYJyM/s1600/bread_revolution-8.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZiemVf8ajc/VOKVsfvm1JI/AAAAAAAAzQU/exyx2EDicU8/s1600/bread_revolution-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZiemVf8ajc/VOKVsfvm1JI/AAAAAAAAzQU/exyx2EDicU8/s1600/bread_revolution-9.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.3999996185303px; line-height: 14.5599994659424px;">I received this book as part of the Blogging for Books program. All thoughts, opinions, and photos are my own!</span></td></tr>
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<b><i>Do you make cinnamon rolls from scratch? What recipe do you use? Have you ever started a project that was bigger (slash longer) than you realized? Please tell me I am not the only one who forgets that bread takes so long to make!&nbsp;</i></b>http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/wheat-cinnamon-rolls.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-6276954540523435757Wed, 18 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-18T01:00:08.704-07:00#holdersnotfoldersCropping & Framing: Instagram<a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">Megs of Rivers &amp; Roads</a>&nbsp;and I are excited to announce that we are bringing back our <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/p/an-instagram-community.html">Holders Not Folders challenges</a>! We had our first challenge the summer of 2014 and when it ended so many of you cried for round two! Well, here it is!<br />
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It is going to look a little different this time than our first one. For this quick, six week series, we want to focus on teaching you something new (or reminding you of something you already know) to integrate into your phone photography. Each week we will announce the new challenge, share a quick tutorial and/ or tips, and then encourage you to practice that skill in your instagrams! Make sure you hashtag #holdersnotfolders and interact with the others participating!&nbsp;</div>
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Are you in? We want to encourage you that you can create fun and inspiring photos with your phone and have a beautiful instagram that reflects YOU! Join the challenge and get creative.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">CROPPING &amp; FRAMING</span></b></div>
Today we are starting with Cropping &amp; Framing. For anyone who has posted at least once on instagram, you discovered that you needed to fit your rectangular photo into a square. Yes, there are ways around that if you use white boarders and such, but let's stick with the squares for now!<br />
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Taking a photo for instagram is different than taking a photo on a camera. If you are a professional photographer or even a disposable camera user, you know that your goal is to fit your desired picture into the frame. Yes, sometimes dad's head get's chopped off or you end up needing to crop out photo bombers in the back, but for the most part, we do all our framing before we take the picture. Instagram is a different story (ish.)<br />
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Today I want to share with you the three things that I keep in mind when taking photos for my instagram - dead space, rule of thirds, and symmetry.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">DEAD SPACE</span></b><br />
You need to PLAN on cropping. You need to imagine a square space when you are using a phone camera that shoots in rectangles. This is not always the easiest thing to do - especially when other people are taking your photo for you (<a href="http://instagram.com/p/uCEbOCC9l2/?modal=true">cute shoes gone to keep my husband's head </a>&amp; again, <a href="http://instagram.com/p/wu6blAC9nK/?modal=true">chaco shot lost because megs is just so tall ;)</a> ) Step back so that you can see more than you need - this creates dead space. Don't worry about how messy you photo looks at first, once it is popped into instagram, the look is much more polished.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-txKAUjcULm0/VOPD1OgXxtI/AAAAAAAAzT8/aQwRG55jfos/s1600/dead_space.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-txKAUjcULm0/VOPD1OgXxtI/AAAAAAAAzT8/aQwRG55jfos/s1600/dead_space.jpg" height="318" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CmbDINwP88A/VOPDUBfdpwI/AAAAAAAAzTs/Zi-qfMD4B6o/s1600/dead_space_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CmbDINwP88A/VOPDUBfdpwI/AAAAAAAAzTs/Zi-qfMD4B6o/s1600/dead_space_2.jpg" height="218" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">RULE OF THIRDS</span></b><br />
When you are taking photos for your instagram, think about your subject. Where do you want the eye to be drawn? Remember, the instagram photo is a square - so you need to square off your photo and then draw imaginary lines on your photo. Draw three horizontal and three vertical - like a tic-tac-toe board! I know this sounds like so much work, but you will be doing it without thinking in no time.<br />
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I am not a professional photographer, but I do know that the rule of thirds is when you tic-tac-toe your board, your subject should be along one line or at the intersection of two lines. It creates a more appealing photo. I picked some examples from <a href="http://instagram.com/oakandoats">my instagram</a>: The hot coco and the sweet baby's face both hit the middle of two lines intersecting and Cinderella's Castle and my friend Laura both fall onto a vertical line.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KWph39gaikg/VOPJZyPAA9I/AAAAAAAAzUM/0xXgsZL9kfw/s1600/rule_of%2B_thirds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KWph39gaikg/VOPJZyPAA9I/AAAAAAAAzUM/0xXgsZL9kfw/s1600/rule_of%2B_thirds.jpg" height="162" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SYMMETRY</b></span><br />
While thinking of how to frame and crop your photo, you do not always need to put your subject on the side. Some things are so symmetrical that a center photo is best! This sounds almost opposite of the rule of thirds, but not really - just a different way of seeing things. We are drawn to things that are symmetrical, so if you look head on at your subject and all the sides seem to point toward the center, try to post it that way!<br />
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I have included some of my instagrams that fall into the symmetrical feel - all of these have horizontal and vertical lies pointing inward. That is why I chose to center the subject.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5da8GiP1RdU/VOPKR66q9AI/AAAAAAAAzUY/Ou8z7pjY7GM/s1600/SYMMETRY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5da8GiP1RdU/VOPKR66q9AI/AAAAAAAAzUY/Ou8z7pjY7GM/s1600/SYMMETRY.jpg" height="162" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><b>HOMEWORK: It is your turn now! As you go into this week taking photos for your instagram, think about dead space, the rule of thirds, and symmetry. See if you notice a difference in the quality of your instagrams when you think ahead! Look at some of your favorite instagrams or instagramers - do they do some of these things? Share with us any photo you are proud of by using #holdersnotfolder and share some love on the other grams you see in the feed!&nbsp;</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i><b><i>Make sure to follow <a href="http://instagram.com/oakandoats">@oakandoats</a> &amp; <a href="http://instagram.com/megmcilvaine">@megmcilvaine</a> on Instagram.&nbsp;To see the rest of this challenge and our others, <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/p/an-instagram-community.html">click here.&nbsp;</a></i></b></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/cropping-framing-instagram.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-104701607975399150Tue, 17 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-23T18:18:40.548-07:00Life and Lovemayberry triptravelDiscovering <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RdT7U-kqP8U/VOFmTPUTJRI/AAAAAAAAzE0/bPrdeqMvdYY/s1600/Winter_park-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RdT7U-kqP8U/VOFmTPUTJRI/AAAAAAAAzE0/bPrdeqMvdYY/s1600/Winter_park-13.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Every February we go Winter Park and stay at Snow Mountain Ranch for our Mayberry family trip (<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2014/03/winter-park-co.html">see 2014's trip here!</a>) We load up all the siblings and cousins and stay in a huge cabin all together. Each year we get better about sharing meals, bringing the right about of snacks (and beer), and staying longer! I just got my new lens (<a href="http://instagram.com/p/yycNCHC9oe/?modal=true">remember this post</a>) and I totally paid the $3.99 overnight shipping with Prime so that my lens could arrive before our trip. 700 pictures and 4 days later, we were home.&nbsp;</div>
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I never thought of myself as a photographer and even years ago I would have never said I was interested in being one. When I got my DSLR in May 2014 I became obsessed and now I cannot get enough of it! Two of the three cars arrived first and we had a chance to walk around our cabin area to work off all that "sitting in the car for 3 hours" energy. While the others unpacked, Bruce and I took care of the little spunky one and set out to discover.&nbsp;</div>
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I love these pictures because this little girl is growing up so quickly and I don't want to forget any of her stages. It is also such a great reminder that a little walk around the block can still be such an adventure, with so many things to discover. Keep an eye open for the little moments. The came be so <i>adventurous!</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUWpU6mJMQc/VOFmWZ6cu4I/AAAAAAAAzGA/X29gIjFNAig/s1600/Winter_park-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUWpU6mJMQc/VOFmWZ6cu4I/AAAAAAAAzGA/X29gIjFNAig/s1600/Winter_park-8.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Where do you discover adventure? What are some of the little moments in your life that warm your heart? Do you take any annual family trips?</i></b></div>
http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/discovering.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-857662659660317964Mon, 16 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-16T01:00:03.683-07:00week's endWeek's End<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">SNAPSHOTS</span></b><br />
1. We went to Winter Park for our Mayberry family vacation. We go every year and it is one of the best traditions we started. It started as a weekend and then evolved into an extended, extended weekend.<br />
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2. I love the random Spring days that show up during Colorado Winters - it makes me excited for actual Spring/ Summer. My good friend Laura is a pro on the slackline and she is also super cute.<br />
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3. Colorado is beautiful. I loved spending the front of my week in the mountains.<br />
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4. My niece stopped by on Valentine's Day to give us a Valentine that she made. It was such a sweet surprise to open the door and have her bounce in, wrapping her arms around my neck! Bruce and I always talk about how thankful we are to have family in town.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">YOU MAY HAVE MISSED</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/thirty-one-bags.html">Thirty One Bags</a> (SHOP NOW TO SUPPORT MISSIONS!!!)<br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/slacklining-adventures.html">Slacklining Adventures</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/5-reasons-to-skip-50-shades-of-grey.html">5 Reasons to Skip 50 Shades of Grey</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/valentines-giveaway.html">Valentine's Day Giveaway</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GREAT FINDS</span></b><br />
- Love this post on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624701227/">supporting bloggers</a> as a non-blogger<br />
- This <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624696074/">Disney Photo </a>is magical<br />
- These <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624700971/">Valentine's Cookies</a> look so good!<br />
- This <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624695483/">post is one worth reading</a>!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK UP</span></b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Every Monday I host a link up called Week's End! It is a place for you to link up your favorite post from the week and meet new bloggers. I love community and think that we can all learn something from each other! This week <a href="http://www.vintagesimplylove.blogspot.com/">Nelle of Simply Love</a></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"><a href="http://www.vintagesimplylove.blogspot.com/">&nbsp;</a>is my co-host!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Small-town,&nbsp;Midwestern&nbsp;girl at heart to one&nbsp;exceptional southern city. English teacher, dreamer, and a girl who always follows her heart. I adore color,&nbsp;Scandinavian&nbsp;decor,&nbsp;coffee, books, vintage items, simple inspirations, food and travels. I'm a hunter and gatherer of all things vintage. Life is precious- so i blog. 'be kind- for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.' <a href="http://www.vintagesimplylove.blogspot.com/">Stop by, so glad you are here</a>!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">RULES!!!!!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">1. Link up ANY POST from last week!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">2. Make sure it is a POST and not your BLOG URL. We love your blog but we want you to share a post.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">3. Click on one, two, three, or more posts and LEAVE ENCOURAGING COMMENTS. The whole point of this is to find new blogs, make new friends, and all that good stuff! You MUST read the post right before yours and comment.</span>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/weeks-end_16.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-6885272151805233373Fri, 13 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-13T01:00:03.896-07:00giveawayValentine's Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Valentine's Day (ish)! I am so excited that it is Friday (I am always thankful for the weekend!) and so excited to be able to give you the opportunity of a Valentine's gift as we go into the weekend! I have no idea what your plans are this tomorrow, but I sure hope it does not involve moping around. Enjoy the holiday whether you are married, single, dating, or complicated. Spend time with the ones you love. Laugh, sing, smile, and share your life.&nbsp;</div>
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Today you can win a personalized necklace from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SilverLotusDesigns">Silver Lotus Designs</a>! I love the beautiful handy work and variety of jewelry designs on Silver Lotus! I got the custom necklace and had Mayberry engraved. I had so many thoughts about what I should write on my necklace, but I kept going back to family. There is something about your last name - it is like a family crest. Awe. You too can agonize over what to write on your necklace. Just use the rafflecopter below to enter. All entries will be verified so no cheating!&nbsp;</div>
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="72c52ca469" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/72c52ca469/" id="rcwidget_7d5bdbqr" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></u></span></div>
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<b><i>Happy Valentine's Day! What do you have planned for this weekend? Or are you like Bruce and I in regards to Valentine's plans and you just kinda go with the flow?</i></b></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/valentines-giveaway.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-9054406125229314651Thu, 12 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-12T20:34:39.530-07:00deeperthrive5 reasons to skip 50 Shades of Grey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know you have heard the buzz, 50 Shades of Grey is being released nationwide on Valentine’s day – bring your spouse, bring your date, or just go with friends for a "harmless love story". Hollywood is aggressively pushing this so called love story. I tend to not write about such polarizing and controversial topics here but I do think too many people will blindly walk into this film and take home a message that is far from healthy. Today I want to share with you five quick reasons why I think you should skip 50 Shades of Grey this Valentine’s Day and watch something else. <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">IT ROMANTICIZES ABUSE</span></b><br />
I saw <a href="https://twitter.com/FiftyShades/status/564947246072881152">someone’s retweet</a> in my feed the other day from 50 Shades of Grey- “You said you didn't do romance…” and it encouraged people to buy tickets for a new kind of romance. This is not a romance movie. This is a movie about abuse. I know the big thing is that it was consensual but even if consensual, abuse is still abuse. Not to mention alcohol is a heavy factor in the manipulation and result of her decisions. Under state laws, no one is deemed to consent to partner abuse and violence (<a href="http://endsexualexploitation.org/fiftyshadesgrey/">resource</a>.) This is a made up story which if happened in real life, has severe consequences for both participating parties. <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">IT NORMALIZES PORNOGRAPHY</span></b><br />
I am not going to get into the huge hole of pornography, but it is not something that should be normalized. It is harmful to the men &amp; women who watch it, it is harmful to the men and women who participate in making it, and it is harmful to the relationships of those addicted to it. <a href="http://fightthenewdrug.org/get-the-facts/#sthash.t9KBMLIc.UyILIblH.dpbs">Fight the New Drug </a>is a wonderful website that shares lots of great information, statistics, and resources on pornography. <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">IT SEND THE MESSAGE THAT WITH LOVE ABUSIVE PEOPLE CAN CHANGE</span></b><br />
In the end, after all the abuse and the dark path Ana is taken down by Mr. Grey, he learns to love her. Apparently Ana’s love changed his abusive behavior - this is not the case in most relationships.&nbsp;It sends the message to women that by being obedient and loving they can “fix” men who are controlling and violent.&nbsp;The cycle of abuse is heartbreaking and too many women are already&nbsp;caught in the cycle. If we are passionate about empowering women, this is not the way to do it. To read more about the Cycle of Abuse and other information and resources, check out&nbsp;<a href="http://www.loveisrespect.org/">Love is Respect</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">IT SENDS THE MESSAGE THAT MEN CAN HAVE THEIR WAY WITH WOMEN</span></b><br />
Another prevalent message is that men can do as they wish with women and they will like it/ always come back to them. Unfortunately, this can be the case in many abusive relationships but not in a healthy relationship. Intimacy in healthy relationships is based on trust, understanding, safety, and security.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">IT IS DISGUISED AS A FAIRY TALE</span></b><br />
Hollywood wants you to think this is the new <a href="https://twitter.com/FiftyShades/status/554336173875679232">fairy tale story</a>. Girl meets boy. Boy is into sadism and sleeps with her right away. She is given alcohol and manipulated into signing a non-disclosure agreement that she won’t tell other people about his abusive behavior. After many steamy sex scenes and manipulation, her love somehow softens him and they get married and start a family…. And everyone lived happily ever after. The end of this story is fictional. I've already touched on it a bit, but the real world holds many legal, emotional, and physical implications.<br />
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<b>For more information about this topic, check out these sites</b><br />
<a href="http://www.miriamgrossmanmd.com/parent-survivial-guide-to-fifty-shades-of-grey-part-4-the-danger-to-your-son/">The Danger of 50 Shades of Grey to your Son </a><br />
<a href="http://www.miriamgrossmanmd.com/parent-survival-guide-to-fifty-shades-of-grey-how-to-talk-to-your-child-about-sadomasochism/">The Danger of Fifty Shades of Grey to Your Daughter</a><br />
<a href="http://fightthenewdrug.org/get-the-facts/#sthash.t9KBMLIc.UyILIblH.dpbs">Fight the New Drug&nbsp;</a><br />
<a href="http://endsexualexploitation.org/fiftyshadesgrey/">End Sexual Exploitation</a><br />
<a href="http://www.loveisrespect.org/">Love Is Respect</a><br />
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I say this all to encourage, empower, and inform you. You have the right to have a healthy and functional relationship. You are so valuable, loved, and cherished. and you can make healthy and informed choices. If you are hoping to see a movie this Valentine’s day, I suggest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fandango.com/oldfashioned_176952/movieoverview">Old Fashioned&nbsp;</a>if you are in the mood for a good love story or just go with a classic like &nbsp;<a href="http://www.fandango.com/bighero6_170064/movieoverview">Big Hero 6</a>&nbsp;or the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fandango.com/thehobbit:thebattleofthefivearmies_143303/movieoverview">the Hobbit</a>.&nbsp;</div>
http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/5-reasons-to-skip-50-shades-of-grey.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-2784582523749141538Wed, 11 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-11T01:00:04.367-07:00coloradohealthy livingLife and LoveSlacklining Adventures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Colorado winters (springs, summers, and falls) are sporadic in their weather tendencies. It is something that I have always been thankful for because you never really can get tired of the same old thing. The other day, the Colorado sun was out and warmed up the city to melt all of the snow from the day before and bring the temperatures up to the 60s. We jumped on the opportunity to spend a Sunday afternoon at the park.&nbsp;</div>
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Some of you may have heard of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slacklining">slacklining</a> but I also know a lot of you have not. Really it is this hipster things that my husband and all his friends perfected on their college campus at CSU and as counselors at Eagle Lake. I have not perfected the skill but I hope one day to do so as well ;) You tie up a rope between two trees and walk across it - believe me, it is much harder than it looks but a nice little core workout and fun social event.&nbsp;</div>
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We also brought a Frisbee and played a little catch, Bruce showed off his slacklinging skills by passing the Frisbee back and forth while slacklining, and we enjoyed an afternoon in the sunshine. I know it can be hard to get motivated for a little outdoor time, but I will promise you that it is food for the soul.&nbsp;</div>
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PS: Laura is rocking the tree pose below #talent</div>
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<b><i>Have you ever slacklined? Are you good at it?! What is one of your favorite things to do outside or at a park? How do you make sure to get some "outdoors" time in during the winter months?</i></b>http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/slacklining-adventures.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-1748330791824551297Tue, 10 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-17T11:51:41.186-07:00giving backmissionsthirty oneThirty One Bags<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you heard of <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E5420865&amp;from=DIRECTLINK&amp;extern=true">Thirty One bags?</a> I love them. I have a couple bags that I use on the regular (aka my<a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/productdetail.aspx?prod=3000"> lunch box</a>) and I am in the market for a couple more (l<a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/productdetail.aspx?prod=4441#back">ike these utility totes</a> that will hold our board games nicely when we take them around.) If you already are a Thirty One bag lover or if you have never even heard of them, I have an exciting opportunity for you! <br />
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I want to give you the opportunity to be an active part in sending my dear friend (and cousin-in-law) Leslie to Uganda! I am hosting an online little pop-up shop to help raise funds for her trip! ALL PROCEEDS will be going straight to her trip. Take a minute to read through her story and then see what you can do to be a part of it!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>LESLIE'S STORY</b></span><br />
I married my best friend almost 13 years ago and we have three children ages 10, 8, and 4. I have been a teacher for about 8 years and it is my passion. I love what I do and it makes up so much of who I am. Another big thing that makes up a large part of who I am is the fact that my sister is Deaf. The two of us share a bond like no other, and I am confident that a large part of that is due to her deafness. Although my entire family knows sign language, I was the one who really picked it up more than anyone else, and I am actually using it as part of my career. Growing up I always knew that God had put Sarah in my life for a reason, and as each day goes on, it is becoming more and more obvious what that purpose is in my life. I have such a deep passion for Deaf people and I do my best to love up on them the best way I know how.<br />
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While I was in college, I worked as a sign language interpreter at a local school that had a mainstream program for students both hearing and Deaf. It was a very valuable experience for me to use my innate gift of language and my passion for teaching that brought my gifts to a level I had never considered before. Fast forward several years later to me finding a job opportunity to teach American Sign Language to high school students as a foreign language course. I have completely found my niche. What better way could I be able to combine my love for teaching and my desire for using something so personal and essential to the core of who I am? I cannot say enough about how I love teaching American Sign Language. I get to educate hearing students in a culture that is so amazing, complex, yet simple at the same time. I have the privilege of educating them and growing them in empathy and empowering them with the skills to speak a language that they can use in their own hometown rather than having to travel abroad to use their language.<br />
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<i><b>When an opportunity presented itself for me to travel to Uganda this March to work with Deaf people there, I&nbsp;couldn't&nbsp;resist.&nbsp;</b></i></blockquote>
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Well, let me take that back. It did take a little while to warm up to the idea. I had heard about our church searching for a group of people who were willing to go on a 12-day trip to support our sister church in Gulu, Uganda and I didn't really think much about it. I was approached by our missions pastor and he specifically asked me to go because of my background and fluency in American Sign Language. He continued to explain that there are several Deaf people that keep coming to the church, but there is no one there who knows how to sign and share with them the word of God. He immediately thought of me since I interpret services every weekend at my church. I was hesitant, but my husband was thrilled for me. Without his support and encouragement, I wouldn’t even think twice about leaving him at home with three kids to take care all by himself for nearly two weeks. So, here I am almost a month away from leaving and I am excited, scared, anxious, thrilled, and everything in between. I know God has a purpose for me to go to Uganda, or He wouldn’t have allowed everything to fall into place. Shortly after I had submitted my application to go on the trip, I happened upon <a href="http://youtu.be/AHfC6jqBhkk">this video&nbsp;</a>and next thing I knew, I was bawling my eyes out because that is what I will be doing in Uganda. I will be providing others with the gift of language as well as the gift of God’s love. What a privilege it is to be used for something so much bigger than me.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">HOW YOU CAN HELP</span></b><br />
Since I committed to going on the trip, one of my first concerns was raising the $2700 necessary to go. I have three kids. What money I do have, gets poured into them and their needs, so I knew I had to come up with a way to help me raise the money and I had thought of Thirty-One. I was introduced to Thirty-One by the mom of a student of mine several years ago and I had gone to many parties she hosted, always purchasing things, but always wondering if that was something I wanted to do as well. I had considered <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E5420865&amp;from=DIRECTLINK&amp;extern=true">joining Thirty-One</a> for about a year, but I never felt like the timing was right. When I agreed to my trip, I immediately thought of Thirty-One and how that could help me get there.<br />
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First of all, I can’t say enough about how much I LOVE the products. They are so practical and so fun that you can use them for just about anything. What really gets me excited is how it can help me, as a mother, get organized in a cute and fashionable way. We all have those hidden nooks and crannies in our homes that need help getting organized, and Thirty-One has helped me find ways to combat the craziness and not let the clutter take on a life of its own. Another reason why I love Thirty-One so much is because it is a faith-based company run by a woman who is a mom like me. She knows how crazy it can be to run a household and keep things simple. I thrive on simplicity and practicality. I love not getting stressed out by messes the kids make because they actually enjoy putting things away in their own bags and totes designed to help them keep organized too! One of my favorite sayings in the Thirty-One world is “What do you get for a woman who has everything? A bag to put it in!” That is SO true! I can’t tell you how many times before Thirty-One I had wished for my kids to have their own bags they could use to pack for sleepovers, another bag to pack all their swim things when we go to our local Rec Center, a luggage bag that is all mine because it has my own name embroidered on it, or a place where I could store important papers from the kids’ school with their hot lunch menu and field trip forms all in one place!<br />
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I am so excited for this next part of my journey and to see where else it will take me. Would you consider supporting me as I travel to Uganda and all you have to do is shop! Prayers would also be appreciated!&nbsp;</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VTB_MkYfn50/VNlwY78s4AI/AAAAAAAAyoA/aW18JuoMGWc/s1600/family_804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VTB_MkYfn50/VNlwY78s4AI/AAAAAAAAyoA/aW18JuoMGWc/s1600/family_804.jpg" height="354" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E5420865&amp;from=DIRECTLINK&amp;extern=true">SHOP HERE</a></span></b></div>
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<b>From now until February 24th you can purchase anything on the </b><a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E5420865&amp;from=DIRECTLINK&amp;extern=true"><b>Thirty One shop</b> </a>under my name and party (Oak&nbsp;+ Oats Supports Missions.) If you use <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E5420865&amp;from=DIRECTLINK&amp;extern=true">this link</a>, you won't have to worry about finding my party. Anything that you purchase proceeds will go straight to Leslie's trip to Uganda! If you have ANY questions, please email me or drip it in the comments and I will get back to you right away!&nbsp;</div>
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I am SO excited about this opportunity to partner with Leslie in this way and be able to share with you some wonderful products. If you need any advice on what to get (or what I'm getting) let me know in the comments!&nbsp;</div>
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<i><b>Do you have any <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E5420865&amp;from=DIRECTLINK&amp;extern=true">Thirty One bags</a>? Which ones are your favorites? Anything that you think is a "must buy?" Are you willing to pray for and/ or help fund Leslie's trip to Uganda? Let me know if you are in! Also, I would love to pass on any letters of encouragement or direct donations her way!&nbsp;</b></i></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/thirty-one-bags.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-5076005544948867442Mon, 09 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-08T23:26:00.045-07:00week's endWeek's End<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJsAwfW-KJw/VNhRBO6UDAI/AAAAAAAAyj4/lesUbDunl78/s1600/FotorCreated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJsAwfW-KJw/VNhRBO6UDAI/AAAAAAAAyj4/lesUbDunl78/s1600/FotorCreated.jpg" height="624" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SNAPSHOTS</b></span><br />
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1. I have been loving learning about photography and getting used to my camera. I've had my eye on a new lens but I've been a bit overwhelmed with the idea of having two lenses. With an Amazon gift card (left from Christmas) and my Feb allowance money, I spontaneously splurged on this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005K47X/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1">Canon 50mm</a> lens - I am in love. I got it the day before our mountain trip, so I am having tons of fun capturing life with this little guy!<br />
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2. TriStyle is back and we are rocking the SCARVES!! Show us how you rock the scarf look in your weather!<br />
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3. I am LOVING Lara Casey's book. It is such an encouragement to me and inspiration. Please read it.<br />
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4. This week we sent a letter to a friend who lives in town! <a href="http://instagram.com/p/y2Md-KC9jy/?modal=true">Please join us for our #sundaypostchallenge on instagram</a>! One letter a week - you can do it!&nbsp;</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">YOU MAY HAVE MISSED</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/tristyle-co-scarves-in-all-seasons.html">TriStyle &amp; CO || Scarves for all Seasons</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/5-steps-to-taxes-made-simple.html">5 Steps to Taxes made Simple</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/february-goals.html">February Goals</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/lindsay-letters-giveaway.html">Lindsay Letters Giveaway</a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GREAT FINDS</span></b><br />
- This Winter Outfit is <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624663226/">AMAZING!&nbsp;</a></div>
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- I love these <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624657110/">Christmas shots</a>. SO adorable.</div>
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- I <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624658094/">want to do this in my house</a>... but where?!</div>
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- <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624657348/">Just a cute baby</a></div>
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- I think this <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624654771/">Tangled Print </a>may be one of my favorites ever</div>
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- Love these<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624665614/"> tips for taking pictures in cold weather</a></div>
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- I just think this <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624651670/">photo is beautiful&nbsp;</a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK UP</span></b><br />
Every Monday I host a link up called Week's End! It is a place for you to link up your favorite post from the week and meet new bloggers. I love community and think that we can all learn something from each other! This week&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sagetheblog.com/">Cassie of Sage the Blog</a>&nbsp;is my co-host!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rtHEzhp0jwI/VNWw4XRWpXI/AAAAAAAAyco/_S9YBnuGkc4/s1600/sagebuttonpng_zpsbc03c500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rtHEzhp0jwI/VNWw4XRWpXI/AAAAAAAAyco/_S9YBnuGkc4/s1600/sagebuttonpng_zpsbc03c500.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: myriad-pro-1, myriad-pro-2; letter-spacing: -0.25px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.sagetheblog.com/">Sage</a> is a faith-based lifestyle blog written by newlywed, Cassie. Sage chronicles married life, what it's like to be an atheist saved to by Jesus, and a bit of the in between.</span></span></b></div>
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RULES!!!!!<br />
1. Link up ANY POST from last week!<br />
2. Make sure it is a POST and not your BLOG URL. We love your blog but we want you to share a post.<br />
3. Click on one, two, three, or more posts and LEAVE ENCOURAGING COMMENTS. The whole point of this is to find new blogs, make new friends, and all that good stuff! You MUST read the post right before yours and comment.</div>
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<a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/luwpview.php?id=494220" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
<script src="//static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js?v=116" type="text/javascript"></script>
<!-- end InLinkz script -->http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/weeks-end_8.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-6353769427331663925Fri, 06 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-06T01:00:09.283-07:00crush of the monthLindsay Letters Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SjmSM8fxM7g/VMvd_8jLK-I/AAAAAAAAx4s/DSX06LulFR8/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Floor_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SjmSM8fxM7g/VMvd_8jLK-I/AAAAAAAAx4s/DSX06LulFR8/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Floor_1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And with the bat of an eye, it is already February! &nbsp;and the first days of 2015. Today is the first Friday of the month which means that it is time for my crush of the month giveaway! I have been so blessed by you and all my readers that it is time to give back! Every month I do a huge giveaway with the help of my wonderful sponsors to give you something I am currently crushing on.</div>
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Lindsay Letters has been an obsession for me since I discovered she was on the internet. It was just this summer that I saw her beautiful handwriting in HOBBY LOBBY and I totally freaked out a little! It is amazing to see the little business that she grew. Today you have the chance to take home this beauty! The <a href="http://lindsayletters.com/products/peppermint-moss-abstract-canvas#img">Peppermint Moss Abstract painting</a> sized 16x20 framed in the gold gallery frame like you see here! YAY! YAY! (It was so nice I had to say that twice!!)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BhNd9CN-7r8/VMvd_ioF1HI/AAAAAAAAx4k/qNFRHh97tns/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Abstract_1024x1024_8e51555f-818a-4637-85b3-4c71131108b4_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BhNd9CN-7r8/VMvd_ioF1HI/AAAAAAAAx4k/qNFRHh97tns/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Abstract_1024x1024_8e51555f-818a-4637-85b3-4c71131108b4_1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGWSdrfOMic/VMvd_8y-tVI/AAAAAAAAx4o/D2Pn-Nd_lzw/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Gallery_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGWSdrfOMic/VMvd_8y-tVI/AAAAAAAAx4o/D2Pn-Nd_lzw/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Gallery_1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r1Px-9GdWGE/VMveAu2-H-I/AAAAAAAAx40/5SCSe8ye_Uk/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-side_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r1Px-9GdWGE/VMveAu2-H-I/AAAAAAAAx40/5SCSe8ye_Uk/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-side_1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: medium;">YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!</span></b></div>
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Please use the Rafflecopter below to enter for your chance to win. Do not cheat, because it is not nice and entries are verified! Good Luck!!&nbsp;</div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="72c52ca468" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/72c52ca468/" id="rcwidget_xtvcgju1" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr6aJJIIfp0/VMveAYZtURI/AAAAAAAAx5A/C8zbZ_MdOvc/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Ladder_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr6aJJIIfp0/VMveAYZtURI/AAAAAAAAx5A/C8zbZ_MdOvc/s1600/LindsayLetters-PeppermintMoss-Ladder_1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/lindsay-letters-giveaway.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-8733120597770219256Thu, 05 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-05T01:00:17.974-07:00goalsthriveFebruary Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-75QM5PLMs0M/VNMATYdwtQI/AAAAAAAAyXw/i1jlf4GoOdU/s1600/bakery.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-75QM5PLMs0M/VNMATYdwtQI/AAAAAAAAyXw/i1jlf4GoOdU/s1600/bakery.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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I almost skipped writing goals for this month. Goal writing is a crazy balance. I can easily set my dreams so high that I struggle feeling left behind the whole month. I am almost taking this month off, or restructuring my goals. I want to dream big but I also want to be present. This month I have two trips that fill up most of the month and I don't want to be thinking about work (and more work) the whole time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2014/12/january-goals.html"><b><span style="font-size: large;">JANUARY RECAP</span></b></a><br />
<strike>1. Work on Promoting Old Content</strike><br />
I've been using buffer to promote some old posts. I do enjoy having it but I am not sure if it is worth paying for. It is easy to create a full time job for my blog but I don't have time for that - this goal was a little lofty. I might scale back just to trim some stress from my life.<br />
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2. Make a New Video with Bruce<br />
I wish we did this but our weekends were packed before we got to them. Because the two of us both work full time we can only make videos on the weekend. Our February weekends are already gone as well, so who knows when our next video can happen.<br />
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<strike>3. Work on Creating Quality Content</strike><br />
I'm working on it!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">FEBRUARY GOALS</span></b><br />
1. Allow for Interruptions<br />
This month I am letting game nights, naps, coffee dates, cuddles, Netflix dates, and random adventures come first. I am in no way giving up my blog, I am just not stressing about growth, numbers, and responsibilities. I will let the Lord lead in posts and in my everyday life.<br />
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2. Play with <a href="http://instagram.com/oakandoats">Instagram</a><br />
I love instagram and I want to spend some time intentionally playing around with it! I would love to stretch my photography, play around with style, and just let it be a fun place to play! If you don't yet already <a href="http://instagram.com/oakandoats">follow me on instagram</a>, you should!<br />
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3. Stay Consistent<br />
This month I don't have many blog related goals. I've been struggling so much with balance that I just want to be steady. I want to post consistently five times a week, not stressing about what everyone else is doing but being faithful. I want to let inspiration lead me and not get stressed about how many other things I could be posting about.<br />
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<i>Anyone else feel like me? Overwhelmed with goals and dreams sometimes? Did you make goals? How do you keep yourself in check? Please share with me some of your goals for the year!&nbsp;</i>http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/february-goals.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-1720819136288811181Wed, 04 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-04T12:50:28.063-07:00blog it5 Steps to Taxes made Simple<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am sure you have started seeing the dancing signs on the street reminding you that it is tax season. They are right, 2015 has begun and the April 15th deadline is quickly approaching. I remember as a kid having my dad do my taxes for me - it seemed like something only grow-ups could handle. When I was going off to college, he encouraged me to take over for myself. He walked me through <a href="http://clvr.li/1CgaaxB">TurboTax</a> and empowered me to do my own grown up work of taxes!<br />
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I have had my fair share of complicated taxes - 3, 4, 5 jobs to file for, a marriage, a new home, and a husband who works from home. When I started blogging, I had NO idea that it could become and extra income for me. Two years ago I made the first drop of money ever on my blog and I began googling like crazy to figure out how to include my blogging into my taxes. Last year I shared with you a post called <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2014/02/blog-taxes-how-what-why.html">Blog Taxes: How, What, Why</a>&nbsp;as I processed my own taxes that year. I recommend checking it out if you are a blogger and a bit overwhelmed with figuring out taxes this year. Today I want to share with you five steps to taxes made simple. It is actually easy, simple, free, and intuitive! Be empowered to mix all your complicated and confidently file your taxes this year.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">KEEP RECORDS</span></b></div>
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As a blogger, I keep a google document with all my blog income and expenses. I write everything down right away so that I know how much money my blog made and spent the past year. This document is something I set up at the beginning of every year and fill in as things come up.&nbsp;</div>
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For my other job and my husband's job, we make sure to save everything that comes in the mail in a "Taxes" file box. We drop in all our giving statements, student loan information, W-2s, 1099s, insurance information, important receipts, and investment interest statements. Make sure that you keep everything so you are not scrounging around later.&nbsp;</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">KNOW DATES</span></b></div>
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Taxes are due April 15th. Do not wait until the night of the 14th to start your taxes. You can start them now if you have all your documents ready. I highly encourage you to do your taxes sooner rather than later. Watch for your W-2s &amp; 1099s coming in the mail. If you are missing one and have everything else, contact the organization you are waiting for to make sure your statement didn't get lost.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GATHER INFORMATION</span></b></div>
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If you rock step 1 &amp; 2 this one should be simple. Get all your documents ready to start going through. It is so nice if you have everything next to you and you do not need to keep getting up and wandering the house to find that one W-2 in the mail pile - somewhere. Place everything in arms reach, grab a cup of hot tea (or your choice of beverage), and get to work!&nbsp;</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FILE WITH <a href="http://clvr.li/1CgaaxB">TURBOTAX</a></b></span></div>
You have no need to hire an accountant when you have the TurboTax team on your side! This is my favorite step because you don't need to do your taxes all alone.&nbsp;<a href="http://clvr.li/1CgaaxB">TurboTax</a> is a wonderful program (if you don't yet already know) that empowers you to confidently file your taxes on your own, no matter what kind of "complicated" you have.<br />
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This year <a href="http://clvr.li/1CgaaxB">TurboTax</a> is better than ever -- so you can easily prepare your own taxes with confidence. They want to ensure you never pay extra to comply with new health care laws or to claim your Earned Income Credit. Plus, if you're one of the over 60 million Americans with a straightforward tax return and you file early to get your refund as quickly as possible, you can now get your 1040EZ/A federal and state taxes done absolutely free! They are calling it the Absolute Zero promotion and they are the only tax organization doing anything like it! We always use the Deluxe plan for our taxes every year because of everything we need to file, but they help you figure out exactly what you need!&nbsp;</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>RELAX</b></span></div>
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YAY! You did it. You filed your taxes. I know the hard part is waiting to see if you still owe or if you get a refund. One of the great parts about filing early is that you don't have to wait in the suspense and have time to save if you still owe. Enjoy not waiting to the last possible moment to file and drink a glass of wine.<br />
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<i>I was selected for this opportunity as a member of <a href="http://clvr.li/OHjC82" target="_blank">Clever Girls</a> and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.&nbsp;</i><i>What are your taxes tips? Do you always do your taxes or have someone else? Anyone else thankful for TurboTax? I would love to hear about your taxes plan!&nbsp;</i></div>
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/5-steps-to-taxes-made-simple.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-555144312024112329Tue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-06T14:07:06.200-07:00my styleTriStyleTriStyle & CO || Scarves in all seasons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy February! Each month Samantha of <a href="http://www.elahtree.com/">Elah Tree</a>, Megs of <a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">Rivers &amp; Roads,</a>and me (Elizabeth of Oak + Oats!) join together to share three ways to style the same clothing item &amp; your invited to be a part it! Our goal is to encourage, awaken, and celebrate the inherent beauty in each one of us as we live in community.<br />
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This February we wanted to bring something out of our own closets and into this challenge - the scarf. We know so many of our readers are from all over the world and have so many different seasons than we do (heck, we all three have different seasons!) &nbsp;but the beauty of the scarf is that it can be paired with all types of seasons.<br />
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YOUR MISSION: For the month of February we are sporting our<a href="http://www.jordandene.com/"> </a>scarves! Then show us how you style your scarf on your blog, facebook, instagram, or twitter! Make sure to use the hashtag #TryStyleCo so that we can see your wonderful creations. The last Tuesday of every month we will be sharing our favorite posts, tweets, and instagrams with everyone!<br />
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HOW WE STYLED OUR SCARVES: Bruce and I braved the bitter Colorado winter weather for an afternoon out. We love the Colorado beauty and are amazed by all there is to adventure just nextdoor. Bitter it was, we just had a cold front sweep in and the weather was in the 20's. I paired my <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=463847766&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Athleta leggings</a> with my beautiful <a href="http://us.rab.uk.com/products/womens-clothing/down/womens-microlight-alpine-jacket.html">Rab puffy coat</a> (<a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=456860237&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">similar</a>), <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/loadRetailerProductPage?id=442900947&amp;pid=uid7344-25482812-82">Patagonia zip up</a>, <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=6jl7ivA/9Kc&amp;subid=&amp;offerid=330160.1&amp;type=10&amp;tmpid=13069&amp;RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chacos.com%2FUS%2Fen-US%2FProduct.mvc.aspx%2F32085W%2F78338%2FWomens%2FNatilly-Boot%2FChocolate-Brown%2FJ150162">Chaco boots</a>, and a beautiful scarf that came from my <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2014/10/october-golden-tote.html">Golden Tote</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/" style="background-color: white; color: #d37167; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; text-decoration: none;">MEGS</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">:&nbsp;</span>Tennessee was having one of it's rare warm and sunny winter days, so we ventured out to the park for the afternoon. I threw on the chunkiest scarf I own because it is SO cozy and adds the perfect layer of warmth. I feel like my neck is being hugged all day long. Ha! I paired my<a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&amp;pid=988904142"> GAP cords</a>, <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&amp;pid=981974002">Eversoft sweater</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0074SCQVC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1">Clarks boots</a>, and chunky scarf from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0074SCQVC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1">Stitch Fix</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.elahtree.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #d37167; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; text-decoration: none;">SAMANTHA</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">:&nbsp;</span>This was so fun, crazy fun. We took these photos right after our first big snow storm so the snow was fresh and fluffy. I was also super jazzed about wearing this particular scarf because it has pockets and I have always thought it was the coolest thing. At first I had no idea why it had pockets and then I figured out they were for my hands. I'm one smart cookie. ;) This was definitely a play in the snow outfit and super comfy. Leggings, comfy socks, snow boots, and chunky sweater.</div>
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We can't wait for you to come along with us! Join the <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/communities/106687398594526247731">TriStyle &amp; Co. Community</a>! Don't forget to #TriStyleCo ! <br />
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Have an idea of what we should style for next month? Tweet us using the hashtag #TriStyleCo and follow us on instagram too - <a href="http://instagram.com/oakandoats">@oakandoats</a> <a href="http://instagram.com/megmcilvaine">@megmcilvaine</a> <a href="http://instagram.com/elahtree">@Elahtree</a> </div>
http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/tristyle-co-scarves-in-all-seasons.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-5682789224629287313Mon, 02 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-02-02T12:27:05.548-07:00week's endWeek's End<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yqeKM_kdp8/VM7PNmMqOUI/AAAAAAAAyLM/jW6Iqp4Nkn8/s1600/FotorCreated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yqeKM_kdp8/VM7PNmMqOUI/AAAAAAAAyLM/jW6Iqp4Nkn8/s1600/FotorCreated.jpg" height="638" width="640" /></a><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">SNAPSHOTS</span></b><br />
1. I love my free drink that I get with my gold card - I always go all out Venti style. It was so warm at the beginning of the week that iced coffee was a must.<br />
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2. I'm missing Disney World like Whoa. I have no idea what it would be like to live close enough to go on a whim, but I wish I knew that feeling.<br />
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3. The cold winter weather came back but we still wanted a little adventure. Bruce &amp; I braved the cold to take a trip to the zoo. We always put our tokens in the Orangutans so &nbsp;that we can prevent a real life case of "planet of the apes"<br />
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4. &nbsp;We started our first week of <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/the-sunday-post-challenge.html">Sunday Post</a>. This week's prompt was to send a note to a family member! &nbsp;I am loving watching all the letters that have been gramed with the hashtag #sundaypostchallenge! If you didn't get a chance to send your note this weekend, feel free to do so anytime this week and get ready for next weeks letter!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>YOU MAY HAVE MISSED</b></span><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/valentines-gift-guide-for-him.html">Valentine's Gift Guide for Him</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/top-10-fun-valentines-day-cards.html">Top 10 Fun Valentine's Day Cards</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/diy-marbled-vases.html">DIY Marbled Vases</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/the-sunday-post-challenge.html">The Sunday Post Challenge</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/tristyle-co-how-you-wear-it.html">TriStyle &amp; CO How You Wear It</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">GREAT FINDS</span></b><br />
-<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624630875/"> Everything about this outfit!&nbsp;</a><br />
- Love this article on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/87609155227506106/">hearing the Lord's voice!&nbsp;</a><br />
- Top 5 things to do in <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624609023/">Animal Kingdom&nbsp;</a><br />
- Hello adorable <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624610148/">emoticon stationary&nbsp;</a><br />
- <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624615347/">Naptime Diaries</a>. There is seriously nothing like it.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;"><b>LINK UP</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Every Monday I host a link up called Week's End! It is a place for you to link up your favorite post from the week and meet new bloggers. I love community and think that we can all learn something from each other! This week&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justbeeblog.com/"><span style="color: #d37167;">H</span>annah of Just Bee Blog</a>&nbsp;i</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">s my co-host!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lZhABTCkqo/VM7CcDv3ICI/AAAAAAAAyK8/-k9V2RksEAs/s1600/Just_Bee_Button_200x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lZhABTCkqo/VM7CcDv3ICI/AAAAAAAAyK8/-k9V2RksEAs/s1600/Just_Bee_Button_200x200.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hi there! I'm <a href="http://www.justbeeblog.com/">Hannah </a>- a 20-something wife, elementary teacher, and coffee shop fanatic. Just Bee is a glimpse into our life in rural southern Minnesota, with a focus on topics like marriage, food, faith, and my "city-girl-turned-country" story. I dream of the day when we raise little ones on our own farm place, but I'm loving the adventure we're currently on. I believe that the richness of life lies in the little things, so I'm always searching for simple joys (and that perfect country sunset)!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">RULES!!!!!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">1. Link up ANY POST from last week!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">2. Make sure it is a POST and not your BLOG URL. We love your blog but we want you to share a post.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">3. Click on one, two, three, or more posts and LEAVE ENCOURAGING COMMENTS. The whole point of this is to find new blogs, make new friends, and all that good stuff! You MUST read the post right before yours and comment.</span><br />
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http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/02/weeks-end.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-4519635622784467243Fri, 30 Jan 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-01-30T01:00:03.805-07:00gift guidehuckberrymen's giftValentine's Gift Guide for Him<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c3_E5OOzlnM/VMm6RCl9UtI/AAAAAAAAx3Q/r_TC88kWIC8/s1600/mens_valentines_gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c3_E5OOzlnM/VMm6RCl9UtI/AAAAAAAAx3Q/r_TC88kWIC8/s1600/mens_valentines_gift.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I've been rocking a lot of the pink as we get ready for Valentine's day (like these wonderful <a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/diy-marbled-vases.html">DIY Marble Vases</a>) but the pinky red variety is not the only one allowed in this lovely holiday (and I bet he would be thankful for a little less pink in his gift this year.) I don't know about the men in your life, but I know about the man in mine. He loves his whisky, his water, his BA knife, and all things Colorado. I love this round up and I think any man would be lucky with one or two of these for Valentine's Day - the luckiest would get the whole lot!<br />
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<a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2016"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2016">Stanley Mug $25</a>&nbsp;|| <a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2024">Switchback Vest $60 </a>||&nbsp;<a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2020">VO3B - Basic Watch $99&nbsp;</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2021">Whisky Stones $20</a> || <a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2023">Pocket Knife $35</a> ||&nbsp;<a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2017">Head Lamp $20&nbsp;</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2019">Beanie $35</a> ||&nbsp;<a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2018">Water Bottle $20&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;|| <a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301&amp;url=2022">Shake Cocktail Book $23</a></div>
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Also, if you want to lavish your man this year make sure you enter the Rafflecopter below to enter to win <a href="http://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=301">$100 to Huckberry</a>! WAHOO! Follow the Rafflecopter below to enter to win. Entries will be verified, so no cheating. GOOD LUCK!<br />
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="72c52ca467" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/72c52ca467/" id="rcwidget_yvoi1idh" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/valentines-gift-guide-for-him.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3074480824147990885.post-7133464394545944200Thu, 29 Jan 2015 08:00:00 +00002015-01-29T01:00:01.705-07:00cardstop 10valentines dayTop 10 Fun Valentine's Day Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Valentine's Day is a funny holiday. It is the holiday of extremes. Either you are dating/married to someone and you remind people all day or you are all alone and sad. Either you are super romantic and go all out with limos, and diamonds, and puppies or you post tweets about how dumb Valentine's day is every hour. Let' live somewhere in the middle this year because all the extremes are a bit dramatic and unneeded (right?!).&nbsp;</div>
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If we take a step back, we can see that Valentine's day is a fun reason to wear red/pink, spend time with family, friends, people you love, eat candy, and send fun cards - right? Everyone can do that regardless of relationship status! YAY!</div>
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I'll tell you the truth, my sexy man date and I will most likely send each other funny cards with inside jokes, eat Chick-Fil-A, play a board game/ video game, and call it good! So this year don't let all the "rules" get you down - send a fun card to a fun friend, lover, or family member and be thankful for those who are in your life! Today I want to share with you my Top 10 Fun cards for Valentine's Day!&nbsp;</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/174041625/ron-swanson-parks-and-recreation-funny?ref=br_feed_5&amp;br_feed_tlp=valentines-day">BACON &amp; EGGS</a></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBRYrVzueU4/VMKdaU19e5I/AAAAAAAAw2Q/PwkjaY7wbFA/s1600/01a5b5d9744507c4791ddb1557d20bfa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBRYrVzueU4/VMKdaU19e5I/AAAAAAAAw2Q/PwkjaY7wbFA/s1600/01a5b5d9744507c4791ddb1557d20bfa.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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Man, nothing like Ron Swanson love. This card will melt the heart of any Park's and Rec fan - especially my friend Laura who is in love with Ron in general.&nbsp;</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/216828081/valentines-day-card-thanks-for-loving-me?ref=sr_gallery_2&amp;ga_search_query=valentines+day+cards&amp;ga_search_type=all&amp;ga_view_type=gallery">HAIRY LEGS</a></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gfeddRXtKx4/VMKnhx00BMI/AAAAAAAAw3o/d45Zs2cu4Hk/s1600/il_570xN.705306242_cbe8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gfeddRXtKx4/VMKnhx00BMI/AAAAAAAAw3o/d45Zs2cu4Hk/s1600/il_570xN.705306242_cbe8.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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True story, my legs are currently unshaven. It is winter and I live in Colorado. Also, saving your legs is hard work. Hard work my friends.&nbsp;</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/121267620/valentine-card-shark-attack-hugs-and"><b><span style="font-size: large;">SHARK ATTACK&nbsp;</span></b></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFn4qI4YUGM/VMKdatRiQ9I/AAAAAAAAw2E/LzG7W5mRrwc/s1600/464717f63fd1ccf01d15efb0f5ab34d1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFn4qI4YUGM/VMKdatRiQ9I/AAAAAAAAw2E/LzG7W5mRrwc/s1600/464717f63fd1ccf01d15efb0f5ab34d1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is hilarious. I have most definitely turned shark like with hugs and kisses before - just ask my husband. It is so loud and in your face that it is just so sweet.&nbsp;</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/113354605/zelda-funny-i-heart-you-card-valentines?ref=listing-shop-header-3">ZELDA</a></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IxHvc6UdtCo/VMKpnUtLXAI/AAAAAAAAw3w/cNkdKmF9IG8/s1600/7b552b1858662fe8441d6fa755e0cbf3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IxHvc6UdtCo/VMKpnUtLXAI/AAAAAAAAw3w/cNkdKmF9IG8/s1600/7b552b1858662fe8441d6fa755e0cbf3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I see this card and think of three things, 1. My husband's childhood 2. Link is the same name as the guy in Hair Spray - my childhood 3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0M7IINwTFVw">Speed Runs</a>&nbsp;(if you don't know what that is, I am nerdier than you). Also, those little health hearts, adorable.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/73746512624556802/">&nbsp;PAPERMAN</a></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--54jsJ8GLCs/VMKdbDw8HkI/AAAAAAAAw2U/Ey1gO2daTSo/s1600/adc5897387b8a21b720afaaf2cc437b6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--54jsJ8GLCs/VMKdbDw8HkI/AAAAAAAAw2U/Ey1gO2daTSo/s1600/adc5897387b8a21b720afaaf2cc437b6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xzt3vb_paperman_shortfilms">Paperman, </a>one of the cutest Disney animation short films. For the Disney lover and romantic at heart! Here's looking at you <a href="http://www.riversandroads.me/">Megan </a>" I want someone to quit their job just so they can come find me."<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://yenniper.blogspot.com/2012/02/harry-potter-valentines-part-i.html">&nbsp;SIRIUSLY</a></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5BTUqOQcQA/VMKdcE802rI/AAAAAAAAw2o/NTjJ1YqcCxo/s1600/f267e25c93d1d45118830e57ffe33f96.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5BTUqOQcQA/VMKdcE802rI/AAAAAAAAw2o/NTjJ1YqcCxo/s1600/f267e25c93d1d45118830e57ffe33f96.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
For the Harry Potter fan in your life, nothing like a good pun that involves one of the most good looking men in the series. That is all I need to say.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/175826750/pizza-pun-cute-funny-valentine-love-card?ref=br_feed_3&amp;br_feed_tlp=valentines-day"><b><span style="font-size: large;">PIZZA MY HEART</span></b></a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v6Wxa4zbueg/VMKdbmoA6tI/AAAAAAAAw2k/qwW4WvbUe88/s1600/e11cc20d86338855a5eb78025c668a5c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v6Wxa4zbueg/VMKdbmoA6tI/AAAAAAAAw2k/qwW4WvbUe88/s1600/e11cc20d86338855a5eb78025c668a5c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
There is no better way to tell someone you love them than with Pizza. Better yet, give them this card AND order real pizza. Best of both worlds.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/216899934/funny-valentines-day-card-nicolas-cage?ref=sr_gallery_8&amp;ga_search_query=valentines+day+cards&amp;ga_page=3&amp;ga_search_type=all&amp;ga_view_type=gallery">CAGED</a></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyKm-41trRY/VMKdcVui1gI/AAAAAAAAw2s/3svKyPmWrmw/s1600/f4851875f0a32cfd2e536cfb440b516b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyKm-41trRY/VMKdcVui1gI/AAAAAAAAw2s/3svKyPmWrmw/s1600/f4851875f0a32cfd2e536cfb440b516b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Because there is nothing more funny than a Nick Cage Valentine's Day card. For real, try to think of something. You know that this is heading straight for the fridge!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176370000/doctor-who-inspired-dalek-valentine-card?ref=shop_home_active_2">AFFECTIONATE</a></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WUXlrsjP3P0/VMKkH2Jn1AI/AAAAAAAAw3g/zLb9Pi_Icgg/s1600/bc713f1d0ce20eca22b1e889d64d7273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WUXlrsjP3P0/VMKkH2Jn1AI/AAAAAAAAw3g/zLb9Pi_Icgg/s1600/bc713f1d0ce20eca22b1e889d64d7273.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Doctor Who is a classic. Nothing will make you fall deeper in love with someone than watcing the tear-filled episode of Rose &amp; the Doctor forever parting or the epic love story of Rory &amp; Amy. Turns out that even bad guys fall in love and Dalics can use other words than "Exterminate" - who knew?!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/happy-mail.html">LET'S MAKE OUT</a></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUFizxwJDd8/VMWA4tMbK8I/AAAAAAAAxGA/5xkST2VeURM/s1600/Happy_mail-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUFizxwJDd8/VMWA4tMbK8I/AAAAAAAAxGA/5xkST2VeURM/s1600/Happy_mail-1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love this card from the Happy Mail collection. It is blunt and too the point. Just what you need on Valentine's day. (Here you go husband. This is the card you are getting!)</div>
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<b><i>Which one is your favorite? Do you love some of the same nerdy things that I do? Are you more of a funny card kind of person or sweet card? Who are you sending cards to this year? Choosing 10 of my favorite cards was really hard - check out the rest of them on my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/oakandoats/valentines-day/">Valentine's Day Pinterest Board</a>!&nbsp;</i></b></div>
http://www.oakandoats.com/2015/01/top-10-fun-valentines-day-cards.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Oak & Oats)31